We moved in to our Vista Perfecta home 12 days ago and have settled in perfectly. We are only here in this house for a month so we’re trying to soak up all it has to offer, as much as we can. We are currently situated in Playa del Coco, Costa Rica, just on the edge of town, by the anchor. Here in Costa Rica, addresses are not a common thing, so our road doesn’t have a name. But when we are asked where we are staying, everyone knows exactly where we are when we tell them we are down by the anchor.
It’s a nice little neighbourhood, with lots of very friendly locals, a small working farm, lots of chickens, dogs and cats, and even a friendly horse. All of the roads in this little area are unpaved but still easily walked. And we know that very well, as we walk ‘into town’ just about every day. It takes us about 15-20 minutes, depending on how far into town we are going. The closest grocery store is the Mega Super and is about a 10-15 minute walk. I’m pretty sure we could do it a little quicker than that if we wanted to, but the heat has slowed us down to a very calm and leisurely pace.
Back here in our house, we are enjoying as many amenities, if not more, than we had back in Canada. It is a gated property (as many rentals are), has 24 hour staff/security if we need anything, a pool, laundry, and 3 private balconies for us to enjoy. A typical day usually starts between 5-6am with a few cups of local coffee and a laptop. The rooftop patio is definitely the best spot for this, with such great views and all of the sounds of the animals waking up all around us. On a good day, we’ll go for a run shortly after this, but only if we can get out the door before 7am. Leaving after 7 means the sun is now up too high and the heat is just too much for a run.
We’ve discovered that there are not too many rules here in CR, so there are no pool hours, nor age requirements. It’s actually nice to know that they assume that you have enough common sense to make your own good choices. So one rule that Ian and I have is that we don’t go into the pool before 8am. So every morning at 8am that’s where you’ll find us. After pool time, it’s school time. So far, we’ve been doing the schooling separately, me taking one kid and Ian taking the other to a different room (or balcony), for less distractions.
After an hour or two of school, we’ll often head into town for a few hours. The walk is pretty hot, so we’ll break it up by stopping in to different shops/grocery stores, or even a jump in the ocean. We are starting to recognize people around town, and they are starting to recognize us. It’s pretty cool. The first thing we do when we get back home, without exception – ever – is jump into the pool. All for of 4. Usually not a word is spoken, we just drop off our groceries in the kitchen, get changed, and RUN to the pool. When we leave Vista Perfecta, we will miss that pool!
One more thing I should mention is the peace and quiet here at this rental property (other than the animal sounds, mostly birds…I think). It’s not quite tourist season here yet, so there are only a few people around the property. Most days we have the pool to ourselves. There is a nice Irish couple staying in one of the units, so we’ve had some nice chats with them, and there is a nice American couple who owns one of the units and they go back and forth between their property here in Coco and another one up in the mountains. Our landlord Romel, from Russia, and his family live here in one of the units. They are very friendly and quiet, although we don’t see them too often.
Next month will bring a new adventure for us when we move on to another place. Will we stay here in Playa del Coco, or head over to the Central Valley? We are still figuring that out and will be sure to keep you posted.
In the meantime, we’re enjoying our time here and would love to show you around. Click on the video below for a full tour, and don’t forget to let us know what you think.
Note: We found this rental on Airbnb.com. Sign up now to get a $26 CAD credit toward your next reservation!
Till next time,
Pura Vida,
Nancy & Ian
Hellllooo from beautiful sunny nova Scotia,well today anyways ..lol..supposed to be cooler on the weekend..up to 23here today and I was so blessed to be off ..well I’m just loving your emails.so happy your staying in Paradise.. Its definitely awesome…wow..heaven..so beautiful there..and the pools are my favorite.you looked so happy.what a experience.. You’ll here me say that every time.we are going to vote here on Monday..thanksgiving was beautiful with friends and good eats..but the colors are starting in the trees..I’d gladly switch with you..and sit by the pool ..have a beautiful time..stay safe and healthy..biggest hugsssss ,Julie..yup beanie boo lady lol
Hi Julie,
The kids both read your message and are so excited that you are following us and sent the message. They say hello to you!!! and will send you a photo soon! (although our wifi has been down for days, so fingers crossed)
Wow! I am really impressed with your accommodations! Definitely NOT slumming !
I was talking to Dan on Sunday and telling him about your adventures. He said he really minded the heat along the Pacific Coast too and moved into the mountains where temperatures were more moderate. Love the palm trees. It is hard to tell but I’ll bet they’re in abundance there. Don’t forget to try “Heart of Palm” salad! How are you managing your groceries and preparing meals? Are you eating like Costa Ricans???
Do Qoy and Isla talk about “home”?? I bet they are really enjoying themselves. Quite a lovely vacation you are having and I continue to be envious!
Thanks for sharing your adventures. Reading your posts is like having a little visit.
Hi Aunt Wilena! Our groceries are a growing concern. as the budget we had is quickly dwindling. We went to a local market today and found better prices on some fruit and veggies, so it’s getting better.
The kids are great and don’t speak of home too much at all. They were swimming in the ocean tonight while it was dark, they had a blast!
We will try the salad when we can.
All the best!
Ian
We are so happy for you guys and wishing I was there . Enjoy be safe
Thank you Nadine! We are being safe as we can here….haha.
That video was AWESOMELY WONDERFUL!!!!! 🌞📕🍻
Thanks Loren. We love the feedback.
The pool really looks inviting. I love your view from your balcony. Pretty ritz when the munchkins get one too. I am so envious you have no idea. Leaves are in mid turn here and cold climate to begin soon. Very happy for you all. Hugs
Although the fall is my favorite time of year in the Maritimes, I do not miss the temperature!!
What a beautiful spot seems so simple but yet so cozy and open. Love all the beautiful trees what a beautiful site to wake up to every day. Hope your enjoying your little peace of heaven. So enjoy reading about your home and your adventure. Always look forward to reading your post. Ian looks very relax on the roof top. Beats flipping pancakes on a Monday morning at the breakfast program. Let Ian know it’s pizza buns on Monday now. Miss seeing you both around. God Bless !
lol thanks Brenda! We love to hear what’s going on at home. We really do. It’s most definitely a lot different here, that’s for sure. Luckily, the kids are VERY flexible!!! We miss you guys too. Say hello to everyone for us!
Hey guys!
Brenda told me about the adventure you are on! Sounds great and by the looks of it beautiful and warm! Looking forward to following your adventure!
Erin (Stevens Road Baptist)
Hi guys, that is impressive, love the view from the roof, sure beats what Mike and I have been looking at on mountain at marsh brook although colours are now beautiful. it sure looks you are all enjoying yourselves and having a wonderful time. beautiful place but I think the temp. would do me in quite quickly, I would have to stay in the ocean.
I do miss Margaree in the fall, but certainly not the wood!! I am sure Mike had a great trip cutting wood and missing partridge!
Hi Nancy and all
Great to see your new digs in CR. What a great place! i could go for 30 degrees by the pool. We have had real fall weather, with frosty mornings, and i can’t help thinking of last winter. Brrr.
So glad I ran into you that last time at the store.
Watching for your next post!
Have a great adventure!
– Bruce
Hey Bruce! Great to see you on here. Glad I ran into you too (love your photos, btw). Last winter is a big part of what got us here, so I won’t be forgetting that either. Take care!
Nice digs Ian , I am sure you do not miss the Bridge Terminal ! You and your family stay safe .
Hey Jim. Thanks and no I do not miss the BT, or any terminal for that matter. Tell Robin I say HI!! All the best.
Now thatz wat u call living life:)